Nicer than people say

Swiss Cottage doesn't have the greatest reputation. In fact it seems to me it gets quite a bad rap. I don't know if this is down to its own merits, or lack of them - I suppose being centered around the busy Finchley Road isn't the best start. But I wonder whether it's mainly because Swiss Cottage isn't as posh as some of its neighbours. Personally, I quite like the place. Firstly, it's home to the Hampstead Theatre, a great spot for productions in a modern sort of setting. There is also the Swiss Cottage street market, which is open Tuesday to Saturday during the day time. There is also a bit of a community feel and a nice little row of shops and restaurants on Fairfax Road.